Dear Liza,
As the saying goes, getting old isn’t for sissies. When we are young, like you, our bodies do what we tell them easily and smoothly. But older muscles get stiff and older bones get brittle, and it takes some work to stay active. Lately, Grandpa Nelson’s back has been bothering him on our long walks, and something needed to be done.
So it was off to the Providence Sports Medicine Center downtown. It is a very bright and busy place, focused on keeping people strong and healthy. It is built into the same building as the Providence Park, where folks go to watch the Timberwolves and Thorns soccer teams play. You can even get a good view of the soccer pitch from the waiting room!
We met Janna, who asked and answered questions and helped Grandpa do some exercises that will help make his back stronger. He did a good job sticking with them, and some even looked fun. You know I’m going to borrow those stretchy rubber band things.
When we had learned how to do the exercises and made an appointment for next week, we headed off. We walked to Pioneer Square, which is called “Portland’s Living Room” and saw that Christmas preparations are already up and running!
The giant Christmas tree is up and waiting for decorations, and even the Christmas tubas are warming up.
I am hoping that with Grandpa’s new exercises, we will be able to do more walking once winter passes and spring gives us some sunshine.
Love,
Grandma Judy
Dear Liza 